GREEN MAINTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT FOR BUILDING INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAICS (BIPV) IN THE TROPICS

Abstract

Since the introduction of BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics), there has not been any studies which help BIPV stakeholder to make and good decisions from design to maintenance. Hence, this dissertation aims to investigate the Green Maintainability of BIPVs by identifying the design factors, issues and good practices of BIPV.

From the various literature, 10 interviews and 6 case studies conducted, there are 18 design parameters that affect the Green Maintainability of BIPV. Green Maintainability design parameters for BIPV were formulated to ensure efficiency, maintainability and sustainability of the system. Furthermore, a cost analysis of BIPV for a facility was done to calculate the payback period of BIPV. The considerations of building owners for the adoption of BIPV was also investigated.

The research found that there are 18 design parameters that are essential to enable Green Maintainability of BIPV. The more critical design parameters are urban surroundings, types of application and slope angle of panel. It was investigated that the most important process is to conduct a good site survey as it helps to plan the position and design of the BIPVs well. It was investigated that it takes at least 19.8 years to payback the BIPV from the case study. The price and aesthetics of BIPV are the main causes that hold building owners back from adopting BIPV.

To reduce the challenges faced, the design stage of the BIPV is crucial. The BIPV installer, architect, electrical engineer and facility manager start discussing from design stage to ensure Green Maintainability.

This paper serves as a guide and defect library for potential and current BIPV stakeholders so that they can design and maintain their BIPV well.